Tech conference highlights AI and cybersecurity
The National University of Science and Technology, Oman, hosted the First International Conference on Advanced Technology (ICAT 2024) on Tuesday. It will continue on Wednesday.
The two-day event will focus on exploring the applications of AI and cyber solutions for achieving sustainability in engineering and healthcare. The inaugural function, held at the Hormuz Grand Hotel in Muscat, was graced by the presence of Dr Ali bin Amer al Shidhani, Under-secretary for Communication and Information Technology at the Ministry of Transport, Communication and Information Technology.
The ICAT 2024 reflects the National University’s commitment to fostering global innovation and technological advancements in engineering and health sciences. The conference served as a platform for experts, scholars, and visionaries to exchange knowledge and delve into groundbreaking research in the fields of AI and cybersecurity.
The conference featured prominent international keynote speakers and dedicated paper presentation sessions centred around the theme “Applications of AI and Cyber Solutions for
Sustainability in Engineering and Healthcare.” During the inaugural speech, Dr Ali Al Bimani, Vicechancellor of National University, highlighted the immense potential of modern technologies like AI, machine learning, and deep learning to drive innovation, enhance quality of life, and address pressing global challenges. He acknowledged the corresponding challenges that must be addressed across various domains.
Dr Al Bimani elaborated on how AI revolutionises engineering through design optimisation, predictive maintenance, and autonomous operations. This, in turn, contributes to sustainable urban development and efficient manufacturing processes. Similarly, AI is transforming healthcare by improving diagnostics, personalising treatments, and providing continuous patient support through advanced systems.
Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing ICAT 2024 brought together academia, researchers, industry leaders, and other stakeholders. The conference will foster knowledge sharing, encourage research in developing technology, and identify future needs critical for driving Oman and the region’s digital economy.
MOU WITH SRM
A significant outcome of the conference was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the National University and SRM University in India. This partnership will focus on collaborative research, exploring solutions for emerging technologies, and shaping the future direction of
AI research and applications.
Dr Nasser bin Mohammed al Fannah from the MOTCIT delivered another keynote address on the National Programme for Digital Economy. He outlined the program’s pillars, action plans, and goals aligned with Oman’s Vision 2040.
Prof Syedali Mirjalili, an AI expert from Torrens University Australia, presented solutions for overcoming optimisation challenges in real-world situations.
ICAT 2024 received an overwhelming response with over 80 presentations submitted from more than 15 countries worldwide. The conference garnered generous support from leading establishments like ASYAD, Oman LNG, OQGN, Arabian Industries, Huawei, Al Siraj Holdings, and Oman Arab Bank.
The conference hosted over 150 delegates, including 70 international attendees and speakers from over 12 countries, including Australia, the US, Turkey, Japan, India and Malaysia.